Cars/ First-ride/ Range Rover Velar | Flavoured Twist | Drive Experience

Range Rover Velar | Flavoured Twist | Drive Experience

The biggest gripe I have with the interior update is …. er.. is its interior update.

For

Looks, Comfort

Against

No Physical Buttons

Driving

Sampled a 2.0-l diesel engine, which, on paper, is not as powerful. Velar feels like it has a lot of work to do to accelerate with its 204 hp peak power and 430Nm diesel torque. Don't expect sudden oomph when driven hard. However, engine character is better experienced during crushing, or rather, say, when the engine hits its mid-range powerband. The 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox does a good job of extracting maximum potential from the engine; use paddle shifters to make it work even sporty. Well, not literally. 

It might have a big-bold appeal from the outside that could make you be mistaken about its driving position as tall and SUVish. Well, in reality - it isn't. It has a nice, comfy, lofty driving position with an adequately good glass area for optimum front visibility. However, thick windscreen pillars could obstruct vision slightly. But parking sensors and cameras have got you covered on that front. It also has a park assist feature that will steer its way in tight parking situations. Front passenger seat ventilation, massage function, nice sounding tunes and active road noise cancellation- yup, that's all you only need after a hectic day at work. 

Range Rover Velar gets an air suspension and adaptive damping. However, at low speed, or say in city speed - the ride quality feels a bit too uncomfortable courtesy of the large wheels. Get going and hit a decent speed, and you will appreciate the sophistication of suspension advancement. In terms of handling and braking, you would certainly feel the weight of the car; nevertheless, it is not unnerving by any means. 


TopGear Magazine April 2024